Palma de Mallorca

The castle was built during the first decade of the 14th century as a royal residence. Three kings stayed there briefly before the monarchy was deposed in 1343. Subsequently it was used as a prison. It is a large multi-story circular structure with four towers. The arches leading to the courtyard are semi-circular on the first floor and Gothic on the second floor. Various features were added over the centuries, including a moat and drawbridge. The state gave control of the castle to the Palma City Council to be used for the Palma History Museum and cultural events.

Carrer de Camilo José Cela, s/n 07014 Palma, Phone: 971-73-50-65

The food market is situated in a large open multi-story 20th century, modernist building. It is a place where cuisine from various regions and countries can be enjoyed. There is food from Asia, Europe and the Americas. Meat, seafood and vegetarian options abound. Cakes, chocolates and truffles will satisfy a sweet tooth. There is a brewery on site and a bar that takes up one wing of the building. It is the ideal place to meet after work, dinner or the theatre. The foodhall is open 7 days a week, from midday to midnight and beyond.

Carrer de l'Emperadriu Eugènia, 6, 07010, Palma, Phone: +34-64-66-06-71

There is much to see in this 'other Mallorca'. Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture chronicles the history of the town since the early 14th Century. The main historical landmark is the La Seu Gothic Cathedral with its Modernista interior touches, the Spanish equivalent of Art Nouveau. Narrow streets, courtyards and pedestrian walkways make it easy to walk and explore the quaint specialist shops. Cafés, restaurants and bars offer daytime refreshment and nighttime entertainment. The waterfront attractions include a picturesque beach, the seafront and the yacht basin.

The many changes that have been made to the cathedral over the past eight centuries reflect the history of Mallorca. It was conceived during the reign of Jaime I. The altar was consecrated to signify the change from a mosque to a place of Christian worship. Construction began during the reign of his successor, Jaime II. Baroque and Modernista influences are evident in the interior. The cathedral is still evolving. Masses are held daily in the mornings and evenings. Tourists can visit outside of these time, during the day. The cathedral's archives are available to the general public.

Catedral de Mallorca, Plaza de la Almoina S / N, 07001 Palma de Mallorca, Phone: 971-71-31-33

This small, exclusive hotel is situated in the harbor at Palma, within walking distance of the town center. Portixol Hotel And Restaurant combines modern comforts with traditional touches. The decor is a combination of Scandinavian simplicity and Mediterranean colors. The suites and rooms, some with private terraces, have views of either the sea or the harbor. The restaurant is open from 07:30 till 23:00 and serves a buffet breakfast, a set menu for lunch and a la carte for dinner. Guests can make use of the spa, sauna and gym. Massages and beauty treatments are also offered. The venue is available for training, business meetings and conferences.

Calle Sirena 27, 07006 Palma de Mallorca, Phone: +34-9-71-27-18-00

Buscando El Norte is a quiet, cozy tapas bar in the center of Palma. The fusion of traditional and contemporary cuisine, artfully presented, has won the restaurant numerous awards. They serve light lunches of meat, fish or salads, with sauces and garnishes. They have reinvented old classic recipes for their a la carte tapas style dinner menu. Diners experiment with several portions of the miniature cuisine or share a large platter containing a selection. Their desserts round off a good meal. They also have an impressive beer and wine list and range of cocktails.

C / San Miguel, 77 Palma de Mallorca, Phone: +34-8-71-96-66-19

A mansion built in the 19th century has been transformed into the Sant Francesc 5-star boutique hotel complex. Hotel Sant Francesc and Quadrat Restaurant is situated off the Plaza de Sant Francesc, in the heart of old Palma. Many of the original frescoes and features have been retained in the 42 rooms and suites. A collection of contemporary artwork and photographs lines the walls. The Quadrat restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and supper and serves Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist. Patrons can choose to eat indoors or dine al fresco. Food and beverages can also be enjoyed in the Lobby Bar and on the rooftop terrace.

Plaza Sant Francesc, 5, 07001 Palma Of Majorca, Phone: +34-9-71-49-50-00